Jerome B. (Jerry) Linehan, passed away on January 22, 2017 at the age of 77. Born in Springfield, MA to the late Francis C. and Anna M. (O’Neil) Linehan, he was raised in Chicopee, attending Holy Name elementary school. Jerry was a graduate of Cathedral High School and College of the Holy Cross. He earned his Master’s degree at AIC.
Jerry spent his entire career at Ludlow High School, first as an English teacher, then as a guidance counselor. He enjoyed friendships with several former students throughout his life
Immensely proud of his Irish heritage and ancestors, he visited Ireland twice . Jerry enjoyed all parades attending nearly every Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day parade and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade a few years ago. He loved the theater, attending plays on Broadway, at the Goodspeed, Matunuck, and several playhouses in the Berkshires.
From the time he was a young boy, he took an enormous interest in politics, both local and national. He was an avid reader and huge fan of the Patriots and Red Sox. Most of all, he loved March Madness.
Jerry took piano lessons in elementary school, and received a piano from his parents on his tenth birthday. He became an accomplished pianist in his adult life. Jerry was a friend of Bill W., and loved his Friday night meetings.
Jerry is survived by his brother Robert Linehan (Priscilla) and his sister Mary LeBlanc (Roger) both of Enfield, CT. He also leaves his nieces and nephews: Beth Linehan of Chester, CT., Michael Linehan (Linda) of Southington, CT., David Linehan (Mary) of Enfield, CT, Karen King (William) Enfield, CT, Susan Parzych (Keith) of Florence, MA, Dan Linehan (Anne) of Enfield, CT, Jonathan LeBlanc of East Hampton, CT., Elizabeth Sheikh (David) of Evanston, IL, and Kathryn Fawthrop (Gerald) of Suffield, CT.
He also leaves several great and great-great nieces and nephews, many cousins, and many, many good friends.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his nephew, Raymond Linehan, several aunts and uncles, and good friends, William Alberti, Robert Connelly, Donna Dwyer, and Greg and Shirley Wrinn.
Jerry will be remembered for his friendliness, wit, compassion, and intelligence. He will be missed by everyone who knew him.
The family would like to thank the multitude of people who sent cards to Jerry, who visited him, and who prayed for him.
Rest in peace. You were a gifted teacher and shared your passion for learning. As your student at LHS, I am forever grateful for you and the positive impact you had on my life.
Rest in peace Mr. Linehan. Thank you for your advice and guidance.
Mr. Linehan changed my life in a profound and positive way. I trust that he is smiling and laughing in heaven with the Lord, and I hope that he prays for us.
Mary and I remember all of the wonderful times we shared in Ireland and at family gatherings, plays, movies, and our chats over coffee. We miss you dearly!
My condolences to the entire Linehan Family. I knew Mr Linehan from Ludlow High and he was always the one of the most respected teachers I knew.
Sad to hear of Jerry’s passing; my sincere condolences to his family and friends. I have many fond memories as a teacher, mentor and friend. He has graced so many that had the good fortune of knowing his kindness and personal generosity, I am honored and humbled to have been one.
Who could forget Mr. Linehan -- a very very special teacher, friend, and all-around beautiful human being. I have thought of him often over the years, remembering his unconditional kindness and caring for all of his students without exception. Heaven just got an angel from earth -- peace be with you, Mr. Linehan. Vicky D'Andrea West Palm Beach, FL LHS Class of '67
I am sad to hear of Jerry's passing. We met my sophomore year at "the Cross." We were both in the infirmary. He with a brief illness and I was there for a longer time with mono. During that time we became good friends for the next two years. Although we have not seen each other since those days, Jerry was always had a great outlook and it is easy to see how he would have been a wonderful teacher with a positive influence on his students. Jack Cahill, H.C. '61
A fixture of Friday nights and a friend to many, Jerry was a gentle soul who smiled on the outside and from the inside. He was a treasure to those of us who knew him and got to spend time with him. I am so grateful to have crossed his path and will always remember his smile. RIP Jerry.
To the Linehan Family, My memories of Jerry go back to Cathedral High School! We were part of the"gang" that spent many happy times at parties, games, shows,etc. It was a loyal group, many of whom were friends for life and who have already formed a great welcoming party as he joined them in heaven! I am very grateful to have known and loved him! Rest in peace, my friend! Kathleen Wallace, SSJ
To Pat, Bob, the entire Linehan family, and Jerry's friends: Our sincere sympathy on Jerry's passing. Kent and I extend our heartfelt condolences. May you always hold fond memories of Jerry, as so very many of his friends and former students hold. You have been blessed, Jerry, and so have we. Rest easy. Rob Terrio, Ewing, NJ Kent Terrio, Harrison, ME
My sympathies to the family and friends of Jerry. Mr Linehan, as I have always called him, will be remembered fondly by both myself as well as the class of 1967. He was such an amazing teacher and role model to many. Ironic that I was just thinking about him this morning and now later today finding out about his passing. Rest in peace Mr. lineman, you will never be forgotten.
Deepest condolences to family and friends of Mr Lenihan. When I was a sophomore student in his English class( I had him all 4 years- to my good luck) he opened the world to me. He gave us a reading list- all the books I had read so he suggested a book about Masai African Indians. What a revelation! This gave me the courage & confidence to practice nursing in inner cities, What a blessing,Mr Lenihan, thank you. Be at rest. Our pathes crossed, I marched for 3 years for my Nsg School Prov. Hosp.
Sad to hear of the passing of another great man who influenced so many. Jerry's legacy will be those that he mentored, encouraged, and led by example. As a member of the Class of '67, and one of his English students, I benefited immensely from his kindness and personal interest. The world has lost a unique individual. Rest in peace, my friend....
Jerry was a good friend. I'm so sorry to see him go. May he rest in peace. May God Bless and comfort his family and friends.
Bob Desmarais Class of 67 My sincere condolences to the family of a wonderful, gentle man. Jerry was a very understanding and compassionate teacher. He certainly helped me pass Freshman English class. I was fortunate to have been able to visit him a short while ago at the Wingate Nursing Home facility. We had an enjoyable conversation about the Class of 67 and shared memories of our time together at Ludlow High. We will never forget you as a teacher and friend.
RIP Mr. lineman, you will be missed.
Jerry was a good friend to many, especially those of us in the Friday night Wilbraham Group. He helped many people struggling to turn around their lives by giving generously his time and wisdom. I will miss him and although we shall not see him in person again, his sense of humor and serenity will continue to inspire me to try to be a better person tomorrow that I was able to be today. And then to try it again the next day, just as Jerry did.
Thank you for all your help Mr. Linehan. You made a difference in my life. May you rest in peace.
I have known Jerry since I was in high school. I spent many hours at the Linehan's with Mary and I have many, many fond memories of her "big brother". We had a lot of wonderful visits over the past years. He was a wonderful man and so dedicated to his family. He will be sorely missed.
I remember Mr. Linehan from Ludlow High school and and was my favorite teacher. He never had a cross word for anyone and was always there when I needed help or just to talk. He'll be greatly missed by many. R.I.P. MR. LINEHAN. <3
My sincere condolences - Mr. Linehan was one of my favorite teachers at LHS. He truly made a difference in this world. Deb (Leete) Beckett
RIP Jerry, Your Friendship and Guidance in both High School, and later on in life will not be forgotten! Forrest Rangers Forever!
RIP Mr.Linehan
He was my guidance counselor all four years of high school. We was always very helpful and a good guy. I remember he was a huge Holy Cross fan, he even had his wastebasket from there. I hope all the memories of him will fill your hearts .
I am very saddened by the passing of Jerry Linehan. The LHS class of 1967 lost a very special friend. We even dedicated our yearbook to him. The memories will live on with each passing year, but with a heavy heart. He touched the lives of so many students in their formative years, mine included. MY prayers and thoughts go out to all that knew him, especially to his family and close friends. R.I.P. Mr. Linehan
Rip Jerry. Thank you for your friendship,wisdom and humor. Thoughts and prayers to all family and friends.
Mr. Linehan was my guidance counselor in the 80's. He was the one who helped me with all the steps to get into college, as I am sure he did for countless others st LHS. May he rest in peace knowing that he made s difference in many lives. Luisa Oliveira LHS, 1989
Mr, linehan.....thank you for all of your support, both in high school & after ....when I benefited from your guidance a second time. I am certain you were greeted on the other side by many. As many here will miss your supportive kindness. Tina R
Dear folks, I am deeply sorry for your loss. As a former pastor of Grace Union Church and a recovering person, Jerry befriended me and welcomed me to the area. I had great conversations about theology and the like with him. He was a friend and mentor to many people in AA and elsewhere, that so needed support and friendship. I hope you are proud of how he helped others and in fact turned his own life around in the process. He spoke of family so much and I know that he loved you and you loved him. May God bless, Rev. David F. Hurst [Dave H]
So sorry for your loss. Me. Linehan was a great teacher, guidance counselor, and an outstanding Gentleman, may he Rest In Peace, Amen!
My deepest sympathies. Thoughts and prayers to all. He was an awesome guidance counselor and human being. God bless, God speed.
Bob, Patty, Roger, Mary and the entire Linehan family: My sincerest sympathy on the passing of Jerry. He was a good and faithful friend to me, my late wife Donna and to everyone he came in contact with during his lifetime. He will be missed for his company and his Irish sense of humor. May he rest in peace. Sincerely, David Dwyer
We have lost a very great man ..he was a very well like gentleman that always helped others.he could tell a story like no other..my condolences to his family and friends.sherry.
Condolences to the family. We have lost a witty friend and caring man. I appreciated his love of literature and interest in my writing. He embraced learning and exploring the human condition.
I'm sorry to hear this. I remember Mr. Linehan fondly. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him...
Sincerest condolences to the Linehan family. We could always count on Mr Linehan for a smile and help along way. Thank you Mr Linehan. You will be missed.
God keep you Gerry, we'll miss you Mark and Kim Silva.
So sad , a wonderful man who was such a big part of my high school years has passed. This was a counselor that cared about his students, gave us refuge, made us laugh, taught us kindness and tolerance. His office was always packed with students. Funny and creative. What memories. A wonderful human being ! May he Rest In Peace . Love Heide Stroshine Blackak
He was one of my favorites in high school...the best guidance counselor and great person. I'm truly sadden to hear of his passing.
RIP Mr. Linehan. You were one of a kind.
I knew him as a teacher and then as a colleague. My husband had him as a counselor. He was a loving and caring person. A gentle soul has gone to heaven. God Bless.
He will always be young in my mind A sweet guy. Class 1970
Me Linehan, Jerry, Uncle Jerry you had many titles with many of our 1973 classmates at LHS . Most of all you demonstrated how to be a friend and you always had an ear to listen a smile a laugh and words to guide us by. You will always be in our hearts. Thank you for being yourself. May the road rise up to meet you Jerry.
My sympathies to the family. He was my guidance counselor for all of my 4 years at LHS and a very kind soul.
Mr Linehan was absolutely one of my favorite if not the favorite teachers. Although I had no interest in going to see a play, he talked me into going and that night I was hooked. I remember asking him constantly when we were going again. Every time I go see a new play, I always think of him. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
Visiting hours at the funeral home are Sunday, January 29, 2017 from 2:00-5:00 PM.
Funeral services celebrating Jerry’s life will be Monday, January 30, 2017 at 8:45 AM at the Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home, 64 Sewall St., Ludlow, MA followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM in St. Elizabeth’s Parish, Hubbard St, Ludlow, MA. Burial will be private, at the convenience of the family.
Donations in Jerry’s memory may be made to The Western Mass. Intergroup Office, 474 Pleasant St., Holyoke, MA 01040.
Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home.
Rest in peace. You were a gifted teacher and shared your passion for learning. As your student at LHS, I am forever grateful for you and the positive impact you had on my life.
Rest in peace Mr. Linehan. Thank you for your advice and guidance.
Mr. Linehan changed my life in a profound and positive way. I trust that he is smiling and laughing in heaven with the Lord, and I hope that he prays for us.
Mary and I remember all of the wonderful times we shared in Ireland and at family gatherings, plays, movies, and our chats over coffee. We miss you dearly!
My condolences to the entire Linehan Family. I knew Mr Linehan from Ludlow High and he was always the one of the most respected teachers I knew.
Sad to hear of Jerry’s passing; my sincere condolences to his family and friends. I have many fond memories as a teacher, mentor and friend. He has graced so many that had the good fortune of knowing his kindness and personal generosity, I am honored and humbled to have been one.
Who could forget Mr. Linehan -- a very very special teacher, friend, and all-around beautiful human being. I have thought of him often over the years, remembering his unconditional kindness and caring for all of his students without exception. Heaven just got an angel from earth -- peace be with you, Mr. Linehan. Vicky D'Andrea West Palm Beach, FL LHS Class of '67
I am sad to hear of Jerry's passing. We met my sophomore year at "the Cross." We were both in the infirmary. He with a brief illness and I was there for a longer time with mono. During that time we became good friends for the next two years. Although we have not seen each other since those days, Jerry was always had a great outlook and it is easy to see how he would have been a wonderful teacher with a positive influence on his students. Jack Cahill, H.C. '61
A fixture of Friday nights and a friend to many, Jerry was a gentle soul who smiled on the outside and from the inside. He was a treasure to those of us who knew him and got to spend time with him. I am so grateful to have crossed his path and will always remember his smile. RIP Jerry.
To the Linehan Family, My memories of Jerry go back to Cathedral High School! We were part of the"gang" that spent many happy times at parties, games, shows,etc. It was a loyal group, many of whom were friends for life and who have already formed a great welcoming party as he joined them in heaven! I am very grateful to have known and loved him! Rest in peace, my friend! Kathleen Wallace, SSJ
To Pat, Bob, the entire Linehan family, and Jerry's friends: Our sincere sympathy on Jerry's passing. Kent and I extend our heartfelt condolences. May you always hold fond memories of Jerry, as so very many of his friends and former students hold. You have been blessed, Jerry, and so have we. Rest easy. Rob Terrio, Ewing, NJ Kent Terrio, Harrison, ME
My sympathies to the family and friends of Jerry. Mr Linehan, as I have always called him, will be remembered fondly by both myself as well as the class of 1967. He was such an amazing teacher and role model to many. Ironic that I was just thinking about him this morning and now later today finding out about his passing. Rest in peace Mr. lineman, you will never be forgotten.
Deepest condolences to family and friends of Mr Lenihan. When I was a sophomore student in his English class( I had him all 4 years- to my good luck) he opened the world to me. He gave us a reading list- all the books I had read so he suggested a book about Masai African Indians. What a revelation! This gave me the courage & confidence to practice nursing in inner cities, What a blessing,Mr Lenihan, thank you. Be at rest. Our pathes crossed, I marched for 3 years for my Nsg School Prov. Hosp.
Sad to hear of the passing of another great man who influenced so many. Jerry's legacy will be those that he mentored, encouraged, and led by example. As a member of the Class of '67, and one of his English students, I benefited immensely from his kindness and personal interest. The world has lost a unique individual. Rest in peace, my friend....
Jerry was a good friend. I'm so sorry to see him go. May he rest in peace. May God Bless and comfort his family and friends.
Bob Desmarais Class of 67 My sincere condolences to the family of a wonderful, gentle man. Jerry was a very understanding and compassionate teacher. He certainly helped me pass Freshman English class. I was fortunate to have been able to visit him a short while ago at the Wingate Nursing Home facility. We had an enjoyable conversation about the Class of 67 and shared memories of our time together at Ludlow High. We will never forget you as a teacher and friend.
RIP Mr. lineman, you will be missed.
Jerry was a good friend to many, especially those of us in the Friday night Wilbraham Group. He helped many people struggling to turn around their lives by giving generously his time and wisdom. I will miss him and although we shall not see him in person again, his sense of humor and serenity will continue to inspire me to try to be a better person tomorrow that I was able to be today. And then to try it again the next day, just as Jerry did.
Thank you for all your help Mr. Linehan. You made a difference in my life. May you rest in peace.
I have known Jerry since I was in high school. I spent many hours at the Linehan's with Mary and I have many, many fond memories of her "big brother". We had a lot of wonderful visits over the past years. He was a wonderful man and so dedicated to his family. He will be sorely missed.
I remember Mr. Linehan from Ludlow High school and and was my favorite teacher. He never had a cross word for anyone and was always there when I needed help or just to talk. He'll be greatly missed by many. R.I.P. MR. LINEHAN. <3
My sincere condolences - Mr. Linehan was one of my favorite teachers at LHS. He truly made a difference in this world. Deb (Leete) Beckett
RIP Jerry, Your Friendship and Guidance in both High School, and later on in life will not be forgotten! Forrest Rangers Forever!
RIP Mr.Linehan
He was my guidance counselor all four years of high school. We was always very helpful and a good guy. I remember he was a huge Holy Cross fan, he even had his wastebasket from there. I hope all the memories of him will fill your hearts .
I am very saddened by the passing of Jerry Linehan. The LHS class of 1967 lost a very special friend. We even dedicated our yearbook to him. The memories will live on with each passing year, but with a heavy heart. He touched the lives of so many students in their formative years, mine included. MY prayers and thoughts go out to all that knew him, especially to his family and close friends. R.I.P. Mr. Linehan
Rip Jerry. Thank you for your friendship,wisdom and humor. Thoughts and prayers to all family and friends.
Mr. Linehan was my guidance counselor in the 80's. He was the one who helped me with all the steps to get into college, as I am sure he did for countless others st LHS. May he rest in peace knowing that he made s difference in many lives. Luisa Oliveira LHS, 1989
Mr, linehan.....thank you for all of your support, both in high school & after ....when I benefited from your guidance a second time. I am certain you were greeted on the other side by many. As many here will miss your supportive kindness. Tina R
Dear folks, I am deeply sorry for your loss. As a former pastor of Grace Union Church and a recovering person, Jerry befriended me and welcomed me to the area. I had great conversations about theology and the like with him. He was a friend and mentor to many people in AA and elsewhere, that so needed support and friendship. I hope you are proud of how he helped others and in fact turned his own life around in the process. He spoke of family so much and I know that he loved you and you loved him. May God bless, Rev. David F. Hurst [Dave H]
So sorry for your loss. Me. Linehan was a great teacher, guidance counselor, and an outstanding Gentleman, may he Rest In Peace, Amen!
My deepest sympathies. Thoughts and prayers to all. He was an awesome guidance counselor and human being. God bless, God speed.
Bob, Patty, Roger, Mary and the entire Linehan family: My sincerest sympathy on the passing of Jerry. He was a good and faithful friend to me, my late wife Donna and to everyone he came in contact with during his lifetime. He will be missed for his company and his Irish sense of humor. May he rest in peace. Sincerely, David Dwyer
We have lost a very great man ..he was a very well like gentleman that always helped others.he could tell a story like no other..my condolences to his family and friends.sherry.
Condolences to the family. We have lost a witty friend and caring man. I appreciated his love of literature and interest in my writing. He embraced learning and exploring the human condition.
I'm sorry to hear this. I remember Mr. Linehan fondly. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him...
Sincerest condolences to the Linehan family. We could always count on Mr Linehan for a smile and help along way. Thank you Mr Linehan. You will be missed.
God keep you Gerry, we'll miss you Mark and Kim Silva.
So sad , a wonderful man who was such a big part of my high school years has passed. This was a counselor that cared about his students, gave us refuge, made us laugh, taught us kindness and tolerance. His office was always packed with students. Funny and creative. What memories. A wonderful human being ! May he Rest In Peace . Love Heide Stroshine Blackak
He was one of my favorites in high school...the best guidance counselor and great person. I'm truly sadden to hear of his passing.
RIP Mr. Linehan. You were one of a kind.
I knew him as a teacher and then as a colleague. My husband had him as a counselor. He was a loving and caring person. A gentle soul has gone to heaven. God Bless.
He will always be young in my mind A sweet guy. Class 1970
Me Linehan, Jerry, Uncle Jerry you had many titles with many of our 1973 classmates at LHS . Most of all you demonstrated how to be a friend and you always had an ear to listen a smile a laugh and words to guide us by. You will always be in our hearts. Thank you for being yourself. May the road rise up to meet you Jerry.
My sympathies to the family. He was my guidance counselor for all of my 4 years at LHS and a very kind soul.
Mr Linehan was absolutely one of my favorite if not the favorite teachers. Although I had no interest in going to see a play, he talked me into going and that night I was hooked. I remember asking him constantly when we were going again. Every time I go see a new play, I always think of him. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home
Our sincere condolences.
The staff of Kapinos-Mazur Funeral Home.